The number of independent bookstores gracing Toronto neighbourhoods has fallen in recent times amid cutthroat competition from retail giants like Indigo, Amazon and the convenience of ebooks just a click away.

Lucky for literary types, two locals have stepped up to change that by opening their own shop, Queen Books, in the heart of Leslieville.

Partners Alex Snider and Liz Burns launched the general interest bookstore aiming to offer a well-stocked selection of new books.

"We will have a carefully curated selection of new and old titles," Snider says. "We will carry everything from food writing to sci-fi to quarterlies, and we've got a huge kids section."

The pair searched for a prime location in the neighbourhood, which they found in the 1,700-square-foot former space of Paint Depot near Queen and Logan.

"My partner Liz and I both live within a few blocks of our store," Snider says. "We love Leslieville and are really looking forward to getting to know the community."

Queen Books is now open at 914 Queen St. E. The shop is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Visit queenbooks.ca for more info.